vs

Click on the breeds above to change the breed you want to compare.

Compare Maltese and Afghan Hound side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level

Playfulness

Intelligence

Trainability

Protectiveness

Sociability

Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly

Yes

Good with kids

Yes

Good for first-time owners

Yes

Shedding

Noise level

Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span

12–15 years

12–14 years

Weight

3.5–4.5 kg

20–27 kg

Height

20–25 cm

61–74 cm

Origin

Malta

Afghanistan

Grooming effort

Nutrition sensitivity

Health risk

Heat tolerance

Cold tolerance

The Maltese and Afghan Hound are two distinct dog breeds with unique characteristics that cater to different lifestyles. The Maltese, a small breed originating from Malta, is known for its friendly and sociable nature, making it an excellent companion for families and first-time dog owners. In contrast, the Afghan Hound, a larger breed from Afghanistan, is recognized for its elegance and independence, requiring a more experienced owner. While both breeds can be good with children, their grooming needs, exercise requirements, and living conditions differ significantly. The Maltese thrives in apartment settings and has lower exercise needs, whereas the Afghan Hound requires more space and exercise to stay happy and healthy. Understanding these differences can help potential owners choose the right breed for their home and lifestyle.

Maltese — Advantages

Apartment-friendly
Good with kids
Suitable for first-time owners
Low shedding
High sociability

Disadvantages

Moderate grooming difficulty
Can be prone to separation anxiety
Lower exercise needs may not suit active owners

Afghan Hound — Advantages

Elegant appearance
Good with kids
Higher tolerance to hot climates
Lower noise level
Less grooming compared to Maltese

Disadvantages

Not apartment-friendly
Requires more exercise
Not ideal for first-time owners
Higher grooming difficulty
Higher weight range may not suit all households